Dana's Fields

HOUSING ASSISTANCE CORPORATION: CHANGING LIVES SINCE 1974

HAC is about much more than 'housing assistance.' In working to make decent housing available to everyone on the Cape & Islands, we have constantly extended the range and depth of our programs. Tn addition to providing shelter to individuals and families, HAC offers education and workshops, foreclosure counseling and homelessness prevention, energy rehab and weatherization, rental assistance and develops housing. Tens of thousands of Cape Codders have received help in one way or another from HAC.

Many of our proudest achievements have come in supporting people to acquire new control over their lives. We know that those without homes require much more than a shelter. They need a home: a setting where they have an opportunity to play to their strengths, and create full, meaningful lives. Dana's Fields is such an opportunity.

DANA'S FIELDS: A VALUABLE MODEL FOR ALL OF US

What began as a story about 'them' became a story about us. The residents of Dana’s Fields will come from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds. Some may have experienced homelessness. Others will have not. Some will already be employed, others will receive the vocational and job training they need to participate as fully in their community as possible. The idea that 'everyone can grow' is a simple premise, too often forgotten or overlooked. This is a project that will turn around, not only lives, but also perceptions and possibilities. On a 46-acre plot in Sandwich, Cape Cod, Dana's Fields will plant new seeds of hope and imagination where they are most urgently needed. For all of us.

Dana’s Fields is an ambitious project that will serve many needs in the community, from affordable housing and economic development to energy conservation and education. HAC believes that all are among the most critical needs of this region and will, if met, support the sustainability of Cape Cod.

Tenants will have access to vocational training and employment offered by educational and business partners who will also be located on the Dana’s Fields campus. Energy and agriculture will be the primary theme for the development.

Dana’s Fields is not a commune, poor farm or co-housing development, but an intact community of affordable workforce housing presented as studios or traditional apartment units. Vocational training will focus on skills marketable for this region and jobs offered will provide services and support needed by the business tenants of Dana’s Fields.

Housing Assistance Corporation, which will develop, own and operate Dana’s Fields, is being built for long-term sustainability. The design, siting, and construction of the buildings and the building site will support energy efficiency and utilize products and practices that are environmentally responsible. Where appropriate, HAC will follow LEED standards, but actual building performance will take precedence over certification.

PARTNERSHIPS CONTINUE TO GROW

Dana's Fields draws on the combined expertise of many people. Educators, energy experts, architects, lawyers, gardeners, farmers and business consultants are among those whose knowledge and experience and have brought us to where we are today. Perhaps most crucial has been the input of the Dana's Fields Advisory Committee. Their insights and commitment have been instrumental in guiding and shaping this project. We will continue to turn to all of them as we prepare to move into the construction phase of Dana's Fields. To all of you who give to this project, in whatever way, our heartfelt thanks.

PROGRESS REPORT

HAC received its comprehensive permit from the Town of Sandwich in January 2007, opening the door for the agency to pursue financing and construction. Dana's Fields will include 10 studio apartments for recently homeless tenants, 48 units of traditional apartments for low-income tenants, a community building with commercial kitchen, office space and training areas, plus agricultural areas, which include the community garden, a horse barn, riding ring and trails.

The first activity at Dana's Fields is an organic community garden, which will be open in time to plant peas this spring. The garden is set off Victory Drive and includes 37 25-by-25 foot plots. Some raised beds will be available to accommodate the needs of elderly or disabled gardeners. Water to the site will be pumped using solar power. Some plots are still available. Interested gardens should contact Bob Johnson at bjohnson@haconcapecod.org for more information.

Meanwhile, we are working with a green team of energy experts as we work on the architecture and design of the project. We are in the process of getting a wastewater discharge permit. We anticipate seeking Low Income Housing Tax Credits in the Fall of 2008 for the rental housing and are pursuing private funds for the studio apartments that will serve our recently homeless tenants. We hope to break ground on the housing in 2009.